de Young Museum, San Francisco - De Young Museum in San Francisco
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de Young Museum San Francisco

A striking copper-clad museum in Golden Gate Park, showcasing diverse global art and offering panoramic city views from its observation tower.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better art viewing

CrowdLow
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de Young Museum, San Francisco - De Young Museum in San Francisco

de Young Museum San Francisco

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better art viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A striking copper-clad museum in Golden Gate Park, showcasing diverse global art and offering panoramic city views from its observation tower.

4.6
(9k reviews)

"A must-visit for art and culture lovers, offering a rich collection and striking architecture."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Tickets in Advance

Tickets can sell out, especially for special exhibits. Book online for timed entry .

🚗 Parking Strategy

Consider the Music Concourse Garage or free street parking on MLK Dr. Arrive early .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Harmon Observation Tower

Harmon Observation Tower

9th Floor

Ascend for breathtaking panoramic views of Golden Gate Park and the city skyline. Free to enter!

Striking Copper Facade

Striking Copper Facade

Admire the museum's iconic, shimmering copper exterior, a work of art in itself.

Diverse Global Collections

Diverse Global Collections

Explore American art, textiles, African art, Oceanic art, and more from around the world.

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Free Days

Free admission days for Bay Area residents can be incredibly crowded. To truly enjoy the art, consider visiting on a non-free day or arrive right at opening. Reddit users advise that free days make it hard to see the art well.Reddit

Parking Pointers

Parking can be a challenge, especially on free days. The Music Concourse Garage offers convenient access but comes with a fee. Free street parking is available on MLK Jr. Dr., but can fill up quickly.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better art viewing
Crowd
Low
When
First few days of exhibits
Why
See fresh displays before wilting
Crowd
Medium
When
First Tuesday of the month
Why
Free for Bay Area residents
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

and it’s free to enter the museum, head to the 9th floor to the Harmon Observation Tower for an incredible panoramic view of Golden Gate Park! Share this with a friend 🌳 Growing up in San Francisco, I’m always discovering new corners inside of Golden Gate Park. And what better way to spend the long weekend, than at a quiet museum day admiring art. Be sure to catch the Ansel Adams and Kehinde Wiley...
@fashionbyally
37.3K likes • 581.8K views

🎯 Book Tickets in Advance

Tickets can sell out, especially for special exhibits. Book online for timed entry.Reddit

🚗 Parking Strategy

Consider the Music Concourse Garage or free street parking on MLK Dr. Arrive early.Reddit

and it’s free for SF residents 🐸 i took my parents to the conservatory of flowers inside of golden gate park and did not know about the lily pads. they loved seeing all the tropical flowers and plants 🌴 #goldengatepark #sanfrancisco #hiddengem #lilypads #traveltiktok #thingstodoinsf #plants
@fashionbyally
19.8K likes • 468K views
Definitely a must see exhibit, opening day this Saturday. Rose will be giving a lecture at the de Young on Saturday, September 13 at 3 pm. Admission is free and no advance ticketing is required. @rosebsimpson makes museum history as she DRIVES in the final pieces to her installation, “Rose B. Simpson: LEXICON” ✨ The next time you visit the museum, say hello to “Maria” and “Bosque.” “Maria” is...
duenascarclub
58 likes • 2.5K views

🚶‍♀️ Public Transport Option

Skip parking hassles! Public transit is a great way to reach the museum.Reddit

📸 Observation Tower Views

Don't miss the free Harmon Observation Tower for stunning city panoramas.TikTok

All things must end. I’ll be doing my FINAL tour of the Paul McCartney Photographs 1963-64 exhibition at the @deyoungmuseum on: Thursday, September 18 12:30 pm The tour is free with your ticket for the exhibition. Signups at the information desk are encouraged. This exhibition ends on October 5. #paulmccartney #beatles #paulmccartneyphotographs #paulmccartneyphotographs196364eyesofthestorm #fab...
heaven4heroes
34 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Tickets in Advance

Tickets can sell out, especially for special exhibits. Book online for timed entry.Reddit

🚗 Parking Strategy

Consider the Music Concourse Garage or free street parking on MLK Dr. Arrive early.Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Public Transport Option

Skip parking hassles! Public transit is a great way to reach the museum.Reddit

📸 Observation Tower Views

Don't miss the free Harmon Observation Tower for stunning city panoramas.TikTok

🖼️ Sister Museums

Your ticket often grants access to the Legion of Honor on the same day.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(9k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the de Young Museum for its stunning architecture, diverse global art collections, and the panoramic views from its observation tower. Many appreciate the free admission days for Bay Area residents and the friendly staff. However, some find certain exhibits repetitive or less engaging, and parking can be a challenge on busy days.

"Incredible. A large varied collection housed in an architectural wonder. A large museum that requires an enough time to begin to appreciate all its offerings. It even has an observation tower which gives grand views of Golden Gate Park and beyond. The museum also has a sculpture garden with walking trails. The museum ticket includes admission to the Legion of Honor museum.
A must see."

Steven Schwartz

"The de Young Museum in San Francisco is a must-visit for art and culture lovers. Located in the beautiful Golden Gate Park, it offers a rich collection of American art, textiles, and international exhibits. I was impressed by both the artwork and the striking architecture of the building itself. The observation tower provides a stunning panoramic view of the city. Staff were knowledgeable and friendly, and the space was clean and well-curated. A peaceful, inspiring place to explore—definitely worth the visit!"

Pezhman Raeisian

"Consistently my favorite art museum in the Bay Area; beautiful environment, professional staff, and free Saturdays for Bay Area residents! The primary collection of contemporary art is particularly great.

5 stars, BUT:
- I wish they would switch up the exhibits more often. Some of these pieces have been here for 3+ years.
- The McCartney and Matisse exhibits are a just a bore 🥱, and I can’t imagine it would be costly to switch them out (it’s mostly just photographic prints or small paper displays). Happy to hear they are temporary."

Erik Raucher

What People Like

Architectural wonder
Diverse art collections
Observation tower views

What People Dislike

Crowded free days
Repetitive exhibits
Parking difficulties

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The de Young Museum is located in Golden Gate Park. You can reach it via public transportation, including Muni buses and streetcars. Driving is also an option, with parking available in the Music Concourse Garage or on surrounding streets like MLK Jr. Dr..Reddit

Yes, there is parking available. The Music Concourse Garage is directly beneath the museum and offers convenient access for a fee. Free street parking can be found along MLK Jr. Dr., but it fills up quickly, especially on busy days.Reddit

Absolutely! Many Reddit users recommend using public transportation to avoid parking challenges. Muni buses and streetcars provide easy access to Golden Gate Park and the museum.Reddit

Yes, the de Young is centrally located within Golden Gate Park. You can easily walk to or from attractions like the Japanese Tea Garden, Conservatory of Flowers, and the California Academy of Sciences.Reddit

The de Young Museum is located at 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, San Francisco, CA 94118.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission prices vary, but there are often free days for Bay Area residents (typically the first Tuesday of the month). Check the museum's official website for current pricing and any special exhibit fees. Youth admission is often free.Reddit

It is highly recommended to buy tickets in advance, especially for special exhibitions or during peak times. Timed entry is often enforced, and tickets can sell out.Reddit

Yes, the de Young Museum offers free admission days for Bay Area residents, usually on the first Tuesday of each month. Be aware that these days can be extremely crowded.Reddit

Often, a ticket to the de Young Museum includes same-day admission to the Legion of Honor, as they are sister museums. It's best to confirm this when purchasing your ticket.Reddit

The de Young Museum typically opens at 9:30 AM and closes around 5:00 PM. Hours can vary, so it's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.Reddit

🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience

Highlights include the Harmon Observation Tower for city views,TikTok the striking copper facade, and diverse collections spanning American art, textiles, and international art. Special temporary exhibits are also a major draw.Instagram

The de Young offers a visually engaging experience with its architecture and diverse art. While not as interactive as a science museum, it can be a great outing for families interested in art and culture. Youth admission is often free.Reddit

Photography for personal use is generally allowed in permanent collection galleries, but flash photography and tripods are usually prohibited. Special exhibitions may have different restrictions, so check signage.TikTok

The Harmon Observation Tower is located on the 9th floor of the de Young Museum and offers spectacular 360-degree views of Golden Gate Park, the city, and the bay. It's free to access with museum admission.TikTok

The de Young Museum features a broad range of art, including American art from the 17th century to the present, textiles, fashion, art from Africa, Oceania, and the Americas, and a significant collection of international contemporary art.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the de Young Museum has a cafe that offers well-plated and delicious dishes, often featuring seasonal ingredients. It's a convenient option for lunch while visiting.Reddit

For dining near the de Young, consider the restaurants along 9th and Irving streets, which offer a variety of cuisines. Food trucks are also often found on the Music Concourse. Cinderella Bakery on Balboa is a popular Russian bakery, and Marnee Thai on 9th is a great Thai option.Reddit

Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the museum galleries. However, there are often outdoor areas or nearby parks where you can enjoy a picnic.

The cafe at the de Young is generally considered to offer good value for the quality and presentation of the food, though prices are typical for museum dining.

Museum cafes typically offer a selection of vegetarian options, and often have at least one vegan dish or can modify items. It's best to check the current menu on-site or their website.

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, personal photography is generally allowed in the permanent collection galleries. However, flash photography, tripods, and selfie sticks are usually prohibited to protect the artwork and ensure a good experience for all visitors.TikTok

The Harmon Observation Tower offers incredible panoramic views perfect for photos.TikTok The museum's unique copper facade is also a popular subject. Many visitors also enjoy photographing the surrounding Golden Gate Park.

Weekday mornings generally offer fewer crowds, allowing for more unobstructed shots. The golden hour before sunset can also provide beautiful lighting for exterior shots of the museum and park.

Commercial photography, including professional shoots, typically requires special permits and advance arrangements. Contact the museum's press or visitor services department for details.

Special exhibitions often have stricter photography rules, sometimes prohibiting it entirely to protect delicate artworks or due to licensing agreements. Always check the signage at the entrance of each exhibition.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The de Young Museum can be a wonderful outing for families, especially with its free youth admission and the visually striking architecture. The Harmon Observation Tower is a definite hit with kids, offering exciting views of the city and park.TikTok While the art collections might require some engagement to keep younger ones interested, the diverse exhibits, from American art to global artifacts, can spark curiosity. Consider focusing on galleries with more visually dynamic pieces or engaging them with scavenger hunts within the museum.

Combine your visit with other family-friendly attractions in Golden Gate Park, such as the Japanese Tea Garden or the Conservatory of Flowers.TikTok These offer different sensory experiences that can complement the museum visit. Pack snacks and drinks to enjoy in designated outdoor areas, and plan for breaks to avoid overstimulation. Weekday mornings are generally best to avoid the largest crowds.Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The de Young Museum offers excellent value for budget-conscious travelers. Bay Area residents can enjoy free admission on the first Tuesday of each month,Reddit though be prepared for larger crowds. Even outside of free days, check for potential discounts for students or other groups. The Harmon Observation Tower is free to access with museum admission, providing a fantastic panoramic view without an extra charge.TikTok

To save on food, consider packing a picnic to enjoy in Golden Gate Park or exploring affordable eateries on nearby 9th and Irving streets.Reddit Utilizing public transportation is also a cost-effective way to reach the museum, bypassing parking fees.Reddit Remember that your de Young ticket often grants same-day access to the Legion of Honor, maximizing your cultural exploration for the price of one ticket.Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

For art lovers, the de Young Museum is a must-visit, offering a rich and varied collection. The American art collection is extensive, and the textiles and fashion exhibits are particularly noteworthy. Don't miss the global art sections, especially the highly praised African art collection,Reddit which is described as otherworldly and deeply human. Keep an eye on their schedule for special exhibitions, which often feature significant artists and unique themes.Instagram

Beyond the art itself, the museum's striking architecture by Herzog & de Meuron is an experience in itself, with its iconic copper facade and the impressive Harmon Observation Tower.TikTok The thoughtful curation and presentation of the artworks, often preserved in their 'natural' states, are appreciated by discerning visitors.Reddit Consider visiting during weekday mornings for a more contemplative experience, allowing ample time to absorb the details of the collections.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architecture of the de Young

The de Young Museum's building itself is a significant attraction, designed by Herzog & de Meuron. Its most striking feature is the dramatic copper facade, which has developed a unique patina over time, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings of Golden Gate Park. The design emphasizes natural light and a connection to the environment, with many galleries offering views of the park. The building's form is intended to be both monumental and approachable, creating an inviting space for art exploration.

Inside, the museum is organized around a central courtyard and features a Harmon Observation Tower that provides breathtaking panoramic views of Golden Gate Park and the city. This tower is a popular spot for visitors, offering a unique perspective on the urban landscape. The museum's design also incorporates a sculpture garden and walking paths, further integrating the building with its park setting. The use of materials like copper, glass, and concrete creates a modern yet warm aesthetic that complements the diverse art collections housed within.

Visitors frequently praise the building's design, with many calling it a work of art in itself.Reddit The interplay of light, space, and materials creates an inspiring atmosphere for viewing art. The thoughtful integration of the museum into Golden Gate Park is also a recurring theme in positive reviews, highlighting the successful marriage of architecture and nature.Reddit

Navigating the Collections

The de Young Museum boasts a diverse and expansive collection, spanning American art from the colonial period to the present day, including significant holdings of painting, sculpture, and decorative arts. Beyond American art, the museum is renowned for its collections of textiles and fashion, showcasing intricate designs and historical garments. These collections offer a rich tapestry of human creativity and cultural expression.

Further enriching its global scope, the de Young houses substantial collections of art from Africa, Oceania, and the Americas. These galleries present a fascinating array of artifacts, masks, sculptures, and ceremonial objects, providing insights into the diverse traditions and artistic achievements of these regions. The museum's approach is to present these works within their cultural contexts, offering visitors a deeper understanding and appreciation.Reddit

While the breadth of the collections is a major draw, some visitors note that the organization can sometimes feel less thematic and more chronological, leading to a feeling of wandering through different eras rather than specific genres or artists.Reddit However, the African exhibit is frequently highlighted as a favorite, with its otherworldly yet undeniably human pieces.Reddit The museum also hosts temporary and special exhibitions, which often feature renowned artists and significant cultural themes, drawing considerable attention.Instagram

Golden Gate Park Exploration

The de Young Museum is nestled within the expansive and beautiful Golden Gate Park, offering visitors the opportunity to combine their museum visit with exploration of the surrounding natural and cultural attractions. The museum's location makes it a central point for discovering many of the park's treasures. Visitors can easily spend a full day exploring the area, with the museum serving as a perfect anchor for their itinerary.Reddit

Within walking distance of the de Young, you'll find the Japanese Tea Garden, a serene oasis with meticulously maintained landscapes and traditional architecture. The Conservatory of Flowers is another nearby gem, housing a stunning collection of tropical plants and exotic flowers, including impressive lily pads.TikTok For those interested in botany, the San Francisco Botanical Garden offers a vast array of plant species from around the world. The Music Concourse, a large open-air amphitheater, is also adjacent to the museum and often hosts events.Reddit

Beyond the immediate vicinity, the park offers more to explore. Stow Lake provides opportunities for boating and features a picturesque waterfall. The Shakespeare Garden offers a tranquil escape with plants mentioned in Shakespeare's works. For a different kind of museum experience, the California Academy of Sciences is also located within Golden Gate Park, offering a planetarium, aquarium, and natural history exhibits.Reddit

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